Finding into death of Zeina Taouk

34y · Female·aspiration pneumonia in the setting of pseudo-obstruction of the large bowel

34-year-old woman with cerebral palsy, developmental delay, epilepsy, chronic bowel pseudo-obstruction, and swallowing difficulties died from aspiration pneumonia. She was admitted to Austin Hospital with decreased consciousness and pseudo-obstruction of the large bowel. A rectal tube was inserted for relief. Despite IV antibiotics for aspiration pneumonia following feed commencement via PEG tube, she developed seizures, maintained a Glasgow Coma Scale of 3-4, and was unable to clear secretions. Palliative care was involved and comfort measures implemented before death. The coroner found both DHS residential care and hospital medical management reasonable and appropriate. No preventable deficiencies in care were identified.